Do you know what it means by interacting with the web? It means connecting with the browser to explore the world of the Internet. Enter an URL in Google search bar, let the website load, navigate from page-to-page using links, and enjoy; it is as simple as A-B-C. However, when it comes to the technical side of things, it is not so easy.
If you are from the fraternity of web developers, you would be quite familiar with the term FTP (File Transfer Protocol). From a technical standpoint, FTP is a protocol for downloading and uploading files to a web server without a browser which is used by developers for connecting with the Internet for website development and various other activities.
In this article, we’ll look into what an FTP client is and what makes the FTP Client most effective for WordPress, and which FTP works well with Windows and macOS and you will learn how to install them in Windows and macOS.
What is FTP Client | An Introduction
FTP stands for Files Transfer Protocols. More specifically, it is a back-and-forth transfer of data and files between a host computer and a remote server. In plain terms, FTP or File Transfer Protocol is a communication protocol for seamless transfer of data and files. It is a client-server model architecture employing separate control and data connections between host computer and server.
If not all (but majority) of hosting providers help you connect to a website through FTP using the following credentials:
- Username: You should use unique username
- Hostname: It is an address of FTP server
- Password: You should make a strong and unique password
- Port: Mostly, servers use port “21” for quick FTP connections.
Check the image below to find out how to put credentials in an FTP client:
What Makes the FTP Client Most Effective for WordPress?
WordPress website owners have multiple FTP clients options – the good thing is – they all work well with WordPress sites. No matter whether you’re using WordPress or any other CMS, you can practically use the FTP client for dual direction transfer of data and files.
It all comes down to your selection of a web host because it decides whether you will get access of FTP or SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol). By the way, SFTP is more secure than FTP. With SFTP, a user needs to specify a different port and hostname. Your web host should enable you to create FTP accounts from the hosting control panel:
Related Read: Eight Essential WordPress Plugins All Websites Must Have
What are the Four Best FTP Clients for WordPress Sites?
There are two factors to consider when it comes to selecting an FTP client:
- Operating System (OS)
- Access to extra features
Long story short, we’re going to talk about four top FTP clients. They are versatile choices so that you could take most advantage of the best FTP clients we’re going to discuss here:
1. Cyberduck (Windows & Mac)
If you want to use a feature-filled, fully-functional FTP client, then you should opt for Cyberduck. It is far better than FileZilla. With Cyberduck, you can freely do so many things such as accessing all the basics, connecting to an FTP server, interacting with files and managing multiple credentials.
Cyberduck comes with the following extra features:
- You can share files with third-parties with the help of temporary links
- You can integrate your site with Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) i.e., Akamai, Amazon CloudFront
- You can easily connect to cloud-storage services i.e., DropBox and Google Drive
- You can easily preview files within your FTP client
- This FTP client provides an ease of syncing directories between a computer and a web server.
Lots of features combined with matchless functionality help cyberduck stand out, especially if you heavily rely on cloud storage, cyberduck is the best option.
2. FileZilla (Windows & Mac)
No list of the best FTP clients can be complete without FileZilla. It is top-notch, full-of-features, reliable, and easy to use. You will love its minimal and user-friendly interface. Install and navigate, you will enjoy FTP through FileZilla.
Save credentials for multiple FTP servers, instant connection with a single click, ease of configuring connection time-out. The best part is that FileZilla is an open-source software. All of its options are FREE.
This FTA client also comes with ‘Pro Version’ which is equipped with protocol support for WebDAV, Backblaze B2, Amazon S3, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, Google Cloud storage, etc.
3. WinSCP (Windows)
WinSCP isn’t extra-ordinarily unique in terms of extra features as compared to FileZilla and Cyberduck. When it comes to style and functionality, WinSCP is a noteworthy FTP client. It has a built-in text editor, file previews, and easy integration with Amazon S3 Plus, and task automation, etc, so this tool is a good option for developers.
4. ForkLift (Mac)
ForkLift is quite different from the rest of the FTO clients. It is premium software for Mac. It’s not a dedicated FTP client. Its dual-panel file manager enables it to integrate seamlessly with macOS.
This file manager supports all types of remote connections and protocols such as FTP, SFTP, Amazon S3, Google Drive, etc. So, if you’re looking for a FTP client for MacOS, always choose ForkLift.
How to Install an FTP Client for Windows
If you have a client’s Windows installer, just run the program like other apps:
The whole process of installing the FTP client requires ticking multiple right options. However, keep in mind, installation of the FTP client shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. In the end, when the FTP client is successful, you are ready-and-set to use your desired FTP client through a start menu or shortcut.
How to Install an FTP Client for Mac
Once you’ve chosen the FTP client, it is time to install it. The process is simple and linear. Regardless of OS, it all starts with downloading the respective files from the home page of the FTP client. ForkLift 3 is the most reliable FTP client for macOS.
Final Words: Four The Best FTP Clients for WordPress Users
If you’re a WordPress website manager/owner, sooner or later, you will need to use FTP: a standalone client with plenty of options. For Windows, our choices are FileZilla and Cyberduck. If you want to enjoy an easy interface FileZilla is the best and if you’re a power-user, cyberduck should be the first-pick. And, for Mac, ForkLift is a surefire way to enjoy a seamless experience. It is equipped with better options than FileZilla and other FTP clients.
A reliable FTP client makes your digital life easy. The premium WordPress maintenance service is a sure solution to improve your website. WP-Bridge offers result-driven WordPress solutions to keep your WordPress site protected, safe and visible across all search engines. Don’t waste your time and reach out to us right away.